After graduating with a degree I wasn’t sure how to use, I found myself feeling lost. I knew I needed time to refocus and understand what I truly enjoy doing. That’s why I decided to take a gap year, to focus on myself and explore new opportunities.
When I was first consulted by Korea Gap Year, I immediately felt understood. They guided me through every step of the process and made sure all of my questions were answered. Their support helped me feel at ease before and during my stay in South Korea.
I came to Seoul for a one-month internship at Korea Gap Year, where I worked in marketing—my first time ever in this kind of role. I was both nervous and excited, and I truly wanted to do my best.
Three years earlier, I had studied abroad in Seoul for six months, so I already had an idea of what to expect. I knew a month would be the perfect length for me this time both emotionally and financially. If I could have stayed longer, I absolutely would have, because I really enjoyed my time working at Korea Gap Year.
At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Korean work environment. When I arrived, Olivia kindly introduced me to everyone and gave me a tour of the office. I was asked to present myself and share my skills so they could assign tasks accordingly. One of the things I enjoyed most was translating past participants’ stories into English and Spanish. It turned out to be something I loved, and it made me realize that I want to pursue a career in this field.
My schedule was Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 6 PM. It was definitely an adjustment especially sitting for eight hours straight but I got used to it. One thing that surprised me was how quiet the office could be. In the U.S., people often greet each other with “good morning” or “have a good day,” whereas in Korea, people just quietly go about their work. At first, I felt a bit rude not saying anything, but eventually, the introvert in me appreciated the quiet too.
My main goal during this internship was to become more confident and focused on my career.
While I sometimes felt frustrated knowing I had to go back home, this experience gave me time to reflect. The job market in the U.S. has been tough, and I often felt uncertain about what was waiting for me. But living alone in Korea for a month was an eye-opener. It helped me learn so much about myself. I've always struggled to express how I feel, but being here helped me open up.
Being a student in Korea three years ago was a completely different experience from working here. It’s much easier to make friends as a student. As a worker, it was more difficult, but I appreciated the little moments when locals would approach me during dinner just to speak English. Some even asked about my Mexican heritage and my Spanish, which made me happy and proud to share. It was a meaningful exchange of cultures.
Korean culture was breathtaking to experience again. From packed subways during rush hour to cute themed cafes and late-night karaoke, everything felt surreal. I know I’ll truly miss this lifestyle when I return home. It's definitely true when they say Seoul never sleeps!
Don’t be afraid to try new things! Try new foods, drinks, visit places, and step out of your comfort zone. You’re in a different country, don't be shy. If you feel discouraged or homesick just remember that you are working towards your goal and future. I also believe your accomodation should be around a loud neighborhood so it’s not totally quiet making you feel at ease being abroad alone.
Thank you, Korea Gap Year, for welcoming me as an intern. I’m incredibly grateful for all that I learned and for the support you gave me.
To future participants:
- Don’t overpack, unless you don’t plan on spending money in Korea. Honestly, it's hard not to! Everything is more affordable compared to the U.S. or Europe, so bring two suitcases.
- Research before you go! Watch videos about getting around Incheon Airport, SIM cards, and public transportation. It’s super helpful.
- Be prepared for loneliness if you’re traveling for the first time. At home, eating alone is comforting, but in a new country, it can feel isolating. Thankfully, some coworkers invited me to eat together, which I truly appreciated.
- Try new things! Whether it’s food, places, or stepping out of your comfort zone. You’re in a different country! Don’t be shy. If you ever feel homesick, remind yourself why you’re here and what you’re working toward.
- Stay somewhere lively. If possible, choose accommodation in a busier area. The noise and energy can help ease feelings of loneliness.
What to Bring:
- Seoul has tons of stores. Daiso is a lifesaver for essentials and affordable finds.
- Two things I had trouble with: finding foundation that matches my skin tone, and pants that fit (if you’re tall, they may run short). So pack those ahead of time!
- Don’t forget an adapter for your electronic, but don’t worry if you forget something everything’s accessible here.
My Gap Year Review!
Environment ★★★★★
I was not used to such a quiet working environment but it was really nice getting to experience a different working culture.
Language ★★★★★
It was nice being around the Korean language as it made me learn new vocabulary but if you don’t speak it that’s okay there so many things that are translated to English.
Accommodation ★★★★★
I got an Airbnb near the company which was so convenient especially during working hours it gets super busy in the subway. So, if you can get an accommodation near the company I suggest that.
Safety ★★★★★
Seoul is very safe in my opinion so I never had to worry about any dangerous parts or activities but it’s still an important thing to be safe wherever you are.
Learning ★★★★★
Thank you Korea Gap Year for giving me this opportunity! I learned a lot of new skills and realized what tasks I really enjoy doing. I also learned more Korean than I thought!
